GATLAND BACKS JONES AS CAPTAIN

ALUN-WYN JONES is favourite to lead the Lions in New Zealand — as predicted by Sportsmail — after Wales sought Warren Gatland’s support for him to replace Sam Warburton as national captain. Interim coach Rob Howley has revealed he spoke to Lions head coach Gatland, on sabbatical from Wales until after the summer tour, before making the change. ‘I phoned Warren when I spoke to Sam and Alun-Wyn,’ said Howley. ‘He backed the decision. We want Sam to concentrate on getting his mojo back. Sam agreed.’